The Chicago Bulls and Zach LaVine are reportedly eager to find a new team for the two-time All-Star via trade this offseason, according to K.C. Johnson of NBC Sports Chicago.
Over the past two seasons, the Bulls have attempted to trade LaVine, but have faced obstacles, primarily due to his high salary and injury history.
This offseason, they may increase their efforts.
“I don’t think the Bulls will accept a bad deal if few options arise, but it seems they’re more open to possibilities than before,” Johnson wrote on May 31. “Previously, they demanded All-Star level talent, first-round picks, or both. Now, it appears their asking price has dropped significantly.
“As I’ve mentioned from the start: This feels like a relationship that has run its course. Both sides have been professional so far, and I expect that to continue. However, the desire for change has grown.”
Bulls executive vice president of basketball operations Arturas Karnisovas has minimized any notion of a strained relationship.
LaVine signed a five-year, $215.1 million contract, the largest in franchise history.
Zach LaVine Tired of Trade Rumors
“I think we have a great relationship with Zach and his representation, Rich Paul,” Karnisovas said in February. “We always work together, and Zach’s focus is on the team and winning when he’s healthy.”
Karnisovas also stated the Bulls are a “better team” with LaVine.
I can’t remember the last time Zach LaVine looked this engaged defensively in B2B games.
On-ball D has never been as trash as some make it out to be, but this has still been a big step up!
Moving his feet well, embracing physicality, and consistently contesting. Props to him. pic.twitter.com/glcX1YSE61
— Elias Schuster (@Schuster_Elias) January 9, 2024
However, the numbers haven’t supported this. Last season, the Bulls were 10-15 with LaVine and 29-28 without him. LaVine has had negative on-off differentials in three consecutive seasons and five out of seven with the Bulls, according to Cleaning The Glass. Despite this, he has maintained a positive attitude, as noted by Head Coach Billy Donovan, with whom he has had conflicts.
LaVine hasn’t hesitated to discuss the trade rumors.
“I always heard this: When there’s smoke, there’s fire. And sometimes, you see too much smoke,” LaVine told NBC Sports Bay Area in August 2023. “I’ve been with the Bulls for seven years and have been in trade talks. You don’t love it, but you understand the business. I’ve been traded before, so I get it.”
Zach LaVine’s Situation Affects Bulls’ Offseason
LaVine told reporters he is ahead of schedule in recovering from the foot surgery that ended his season early, according to Johnson in March.
Financially, it would be easier for the Bulls to trade LaVine this offseason.
Previously, their high asking price was a major hurdle, especially before LaVine’s injury. This could continue if the trade market remains slow, even if LaVine proves his health. Alternatively, the Bulls could include more assets in a trade package.
As of now, they don’t seem ready to do that, based on Johnson’s report. How long LaVine’s status influences the Bulls’ offseason remains to be seen.
